Renault Duster vs Mahindra XUV500: How they are different?

Ever since the Renault Duster was launched more and more people have been asking how it compares against the Mahindra XUV500. Although the two cars are poles apart in terms of features, size and price segments, we decided to do a small comparison to help give buyers a better idea about what these vehicles offer.

Where the Duster is better

Photo: The Duster is better than the XUV when it comes to price, build quality and looks

Price: When it comes to price the Duster starts at Rs. 7.99 lakh for the base diesel and Rs. 11.29 lakh for the top of the line 108 BHP diesel. It is a more affordable compared to the XUV500 which starts at Rs. 11.58 lakh for the base W6 variant and climbs all the way to Rs. 14.10 lakh for the top-end W8 AWD variant. So that’s one point to the Duster!

Build Quality: When it comes to build quality Renault has definitely outdone Mahindra in more ways than one. There are no gaping panel gaps, no plastics that look flimsy and then the interiors overall feel plush and premium. The XUV500 may be one of the best built Mahindra vehicles till date, but it still some rough edges. The overdose of cuts and curves and the myriad lights make it look like a dance club on wheels. Also read:Renault Duster receives 6,000 bookings in five days!

Where the XUV500 is better

Photo: The XUV500 with its powerful engine and AWD system is sensible if you want to hit the great outdoors

Power and performance: The Mahindra XUV sports a 2,179 cc engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. It puts out a healthy 140 bhp of power and 330 Nm of torque. The most powerful Duster variant makes 108 Bhp of torque and 200 Nm of torque, which is much lower than the XUV. So in terms of pure power and performance the XUV500 is better without a doubt. Even though it is slightly heavier, it still has an advantage.

Seating Capacity: The XUV500 is a seven seater and can carry all passengers in reasonable comfort. While the last row of the XUV is not a very spacious place it is still offers flexibility to carry passengers or luggage, compared to the Duster which doesn’t offer a third row of seats.

Service network: The XUV500 like all Mahindra vehicles has a wide service network unlike Renault which has barely enough dealers and service centers to cater to customers. This is an important thing for buyers in India and will be a huge deciding factor for many as well.

Off-road prowess: The XUV500 is offered in an All-Wheel drive variant which allows it to take on varied terrain with relative ease. The Duster on the other hand does not have four-wheel drive in India, which means it is strictly meant for tarmac or broken roads and has limited capabilities. Also read:Mahindra XUV500: Should you buy the W6 or the W8?

Verdict

If you are looking for a full fledged SUV with a good set of features on offer and can spare the money, then the XUV500 is the car for you. However, if you are on a tight budget and won’t really be hitting the great outdoors the way someone in a jeep would, then the Duster is a value for money package – an urban SUV that’s probably better than an equivalent sedan.

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